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Working From Home Best Practices

Working remotely is not a new concept, but recent events brought this option to the forefront of business solutions.  In the past the thought was to devote an entire space to the home office,   but advances in connectivity have streamlined the amount of space needed to work from home.  Whether you are working at home permanently or just as a temporary measure, we want to help boost your productivity and mood with some of our favorite tips.

Define Your Space

You can now achieve your home work space needs with more efficient options.  If noise control is needed for conference calls or concentration, then a place away from household activities will be essential.  But if you can take an occasional interruption, there are more opportunity to tuck a work space into an unused niche or repurpose the kitchen island.

Plato Woodwork, Inc Cabinetry – Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd – Interior Designer Judy Bethel

Ergonomics

Maintain proper posture with a chair that is adjustable and comfortable.  Pay careful attention to the position of your head and sight-lines to the computer screen or work surface.  Keep  hands and wrists in alignment, your lumbar supported and maintain the ability to place your feet solidly on the floor.   When possible alternate between a seated and standing position with the aid of a standing desk converter.  Keep work tools within easy reach to avoid pulled muscles.

Lighting

Good lighting is a must and should be appropriate for your specific tasks.  If you are working with a computer screen a lower level of illumination is acceptable as long as your work surfaces are well lit.  Whenever possible incorporate natural daylight to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

 

Multifunctional Magic

Shiloh Cabinetry – Designed by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

When you can incorporate a work zone into another home area there will be cost and space efficiencies.  Think in terms of a rec room or laundry room that can be claimed for work during the day, while transitioning into extra space off-hours for laundry, crafts or homework.

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes – Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

 

Organization

Storage is essential to reduce mental and physical clutter.  If you are sharing your office space with other home activities, gain control with cabinet pull-outs, bins or portable trollies to organize everything you need for peace of mind.

 

Enjoy the Moment

 

Feel a sense of calm instead of isolation by personalizing your work space with pictures, art and humorous notes to remind yourself that you have a unique and fortunate opportunity.  Get up to walk around a bit throughout the day and schedule breaks that include lunch away from your computer and a call to a friend or co-worker.

Explore more of our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And call us when you need inspiration for storage in every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

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Our Top 10 2020 Kitchen Trends

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Nothing exciting ever happens when you play it safe and the trends for 2020 will encourage you to take a leap and try some of these new ideas to energize your home.   Keep in mind that these are trends, not fads, they will be around for the next 10 years.   So don’t be shy, give your kitchen a new point of view and enjoy.

 

1. Two & Three Toned Kitchens

We are mixing it up in the kitchen and bath with complimentary wood tones and color options. It is our favorite way to bring warmth, color and texture into the design.  Adding in Pantone’s Color of the Year, Classic Navy will help the cause.

 

2. Slabs migrate from countertop to backsplash

The veining in stone slabs is so appreciated that we are finding new places to view as art by having it move up the wall to the backsplash and walls.

 

3. Countertop Options

There is movement away from granite and towards quartz (man-made) and quartzite (natural stone).  Add in a contrasting kitchen island in wood or butcher block from Grothouse and you round out this fashion forward look.  Also new ultra thin materials are gaining in popularity to offer a more modern point-of-view.

 

4.  Range Hoods take center stage

Artesian crafted with stunning materials like this hood from Raw Urth, we love creating statement pieces in the kitchen that set the tone for the entire home.

 

5.  The Island Life

Extra-large and multifunctional islands are here to stay as the hub of the home.  They are housing appliances, refrigeration, storage and charging stations.   Also the island is center stage as a place for casual dining and gatherings with guests.

 

6.  Luxury Appliances

This trend is more about superior function than status. The newest flexi-fridges have special compartments that transition from refrigerator to freezer and advanced refrigeration systems that extend the life of food for days beyond the older models.   (Very handy for a weekend home.)

 

7.  Lighting for Beauty and Function

Oversized statement pendants over islands as well as detail lighting under cabinet and on cabinet interiors will increase visibility and provide a highly functioning work space.

 

8.  Beverage Bars Expand

No longer an afterthought, beverage bars are practical solutions that are popping up in every room. Coffee, smoothie, wine, or snacks, the beverage bar is at your service.

 

9.  Permanency

The general consensus during most remodels is the desire to do it right and first time. This is the end of the disposable design era.  Most homeowners want to incude all of the bells and whistles to enjoy now and not wait to upgrade their kitchen to prepare it for sale.

 

10.   Versatility

Pushing the boundaries of what a kitchen should be, we are featuring cabinetry that looks like quality furnishing.  Many kitchens are even including comfortable upholstery and decorative items that encourage comfort and livability.

 

The Geneva Cabinet Company’s state-of-the-art showroom is open to the public and contains endless inspiration for every room of your home.    Stop in for a visit and stay connected to the latest trends at genevacabinet.com

Explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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Cheers to the Beverage Bar

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It’s a little luxury with a big pay off!  Beverage bars are a growing home trend that offers a stylish mix of character and convenience.   This element can be located anywhere in the home where a refreshing beverage is appreciated.  (For Beverage Protocol see Sheldon’s list from Big Bang)

Hot or not, a refreshing beverage is appropriate for everything from relaxation to celebration. What better way to accommodate than from a dedicated beverage bar.

The details of the design are entirely up to you.  Start with the thought of streamlining your daily routine and develop to suit your needs.  Here are a few of our favorite ideas!

Keep It Simple & Multipurpose

 

Elaborate with Specialized Refrigeration and Plenty of Storage

 

Place the Beverage Bar in an Active Area

 

. . . but Keep it Away from the Kitchen Traffic Pattern

 

Dedicate a Niche in the Dining Room

 

Add a Sink & Give the Butlers Pantry a New Purpose

Wrap it Around to Serve Morning Coffee or the Evening Wine Tasting

 

Tuck Away a Coffee Bar

Welcome Visitors in the Guest Room

And Don’t Forget the Kid’s Game Room

. . . or the Big Kid’s Game Room

For more of our favorite entertaining ideas click here!

Explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

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Kitchen Backsplash Trends to Inspire

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Gone are the days when a 4″ x 4″ kitchen backsplash tile would dazzle your day.  The backsplash now plays a leading role in establishing the design aesthetic for your kitchen, and even your entire home.   Browse through our top trends and be inspired to make a personal backsplash style statement.

Solid Slab Backsplash

Solid slabs ooze luxury and are available at a variety of price points.   The Installation of these sometimes gigantic stone pieces is not for the faint-of-heart.  Watch this installation video to see how it’s done.

As you can see perfect measurements and strategic planning are a necessity, but the results are worth it!  The streamline simplicity of this look is enhanced when the countertops match.

slab book match marble

 

There is a natural elegance to this backsplash treatment that is appropriate for every area of the home.  Here it is used in a beverage bar adjacent to the great room.

 

On another installation the granite slabs actually glide to reveal secret storage beneath a flawless Raw Urth stainless steel hood.

1 backsplash ka sliding granite Raw Ruth brushed Stainless hood

 

Take It To The Ceiling

The unbroken vertical line of a full height backsplash will visually lift the ceiling and expand the entire space.

slab full height to ceiling Colorquartzs quartz Venatino CQolid surface

 

Similarly the full height backsplash as created with high gloss subway tile will brighten any room.

subway simplicity tiled to the ceiling

 

Pattern Play

Colorful patterned tile is another top trend.  This lively kitchen uses coral concrete tile as a beautiful way to infuse an otherwise neutral space with confident style.

Designed by Elizabeth Drake Interior Design and built by Lowell Custom Homes.

coral concrete tiles Kitchen island countertop Drake Interior Design Vicky photograph

 

We employ this technique again to make a statement on a backsplash in a kitchen designed with Plato Woodwork, Inc. Cabinetry.  View the full kitchen here to see how the customer’s  pottery collection inspired the design.

ceramic morocco style tile

Shimmer & Shine

Adding a reflective material to the backsplash area will reduce shadows and introduce a delightfully unexpected note.  Under cabinet lighting can be added to magnify the effect.

mirrored bar backsplash

 

iridescent glass backsplash tile

Shapely Patterns

Simplicity doesn’t mean boring, especially when you achieve it with the use of a lovely shaped tile.   Honeycomb, arabesques, and other hand cut shapes add interesting texture even when used in a neutral color palette.

shapely tile backsplash

shapely @artobrick Stone tile backsplash

shaped handmade tile

Classic Subway with New Point of View

Even with the many beautiful options for backsplash tile, subway remains a leader.  The 3 x 6 shape can be ceramic, porcelain or even a natural stone.  All of the varieties will create a classic and versatile look a variety of price points.

marble subway tile backsplash

In contrast to the standard installation pattern,  the other possibilities will help you customize this appealing look.

subway tile patterns

Laundry craft room potting sink STAINLESS STEEL BY ELKAY brick pattern subway tile

Material Mix Master

Blending different tile patterns can result in totally fresh statement.  Here the classic subway is enhanced with an insert of beautiful artisan tile.

 

Inserts of delicate stone mosaics create an interlacing border in a mesmerizing pattern.

Material mix backsplash design

 

And the selective placement of tile can designates various activity zones within the kitchen.

shape and subway tile mix

 

Make the ultimate statement in your kitchen with a backsplash, countertops and cabinetry that all present a unified design.  Our designers specialize in creative combinations and will customized one to your personal taste.  Learn more about the creative process and your kitchen design right here.

And learn about the options in countertop materials and how they perform here.

Photography by Shanna Wolf S Photography and Victoria McHugh

Explore our inspirational ideas here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to experience cabinetry design and ideas for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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Designer Spotlight – Cynthia B Wilson Interior Design- Kitchen Remodel

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We are always excited when we have a design or remodeling project with Cynthia B Wilson, and this one is especially impressive!

Cynthia achieved a new look for this kitchen with the effective reuse of the existing high quality cabinetry.   With an assist from Geneva Cabinet Company designer Natalie Spiniolas and our installation team, this kitchen is updated with the least amount of disruption and expense.

Kitchen Remodel Before CB Wilson

New countertops, modern hardware and a Bella Tile & Stone backsplash all create a fresh new look.  New appliances update the function and efficiency while Wilson cleverly converts the pantry to a dry bar and adds a convenient niche above the range.

Kitchen Remodel Geneva Cabinet Company and CB Wilson

We think you’ll agree, stunning!

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva WI kitchen makeover with CB Wilson

Our designers are always ready to help with your home improvements!

We are delighted to work directly with homeowners or with design specialists.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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Back-to-School Tips Keep You Organized All Year

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Back-to-School means back to sports, after school activities, and homework.  Not to mention packing lunches,  finding healthy snacks and planning the occasional sleepover.  No time to spare! The key to a successful school year is advanced planning.  Here are a few of our most helpful tips.

Let’s Start in the Kitchen

Geneva Cabinet Company large countertops

Large clear countertops are essential when it’s time to work on school projects, assemble lunch boxes and complete homework assignments. In this Plato Woodwork designed kitchen everyone can work together under your watchful eye.

Lake Geneva cabinets with bookcase

Cabinetry with open shelving from Plato Woodwork is ideal for storing reference books, iPads and a basket filled with school supplies.

Geneva Cabinet Company pull out storage bins

Dedicate storage space according to use.  One pull-out bin for lunch supplies, one for snacks and one to stash extra school supplies will let you easily check inventory and prevent late night runs to the store.

Snack Center

Cabinets Lake Geneva Snack Center

This is all about making your life easier, so placing approved snacks together in an easy to access area will prevent whining during the late afternoon crunch time.  It will also help you nudge everyone towards healthy food choices.

Geneva Cabinet Company sub zero refrigerator drawers

This can be as simple as a basket on the counter or as special as this Sub Zero refrigerator drawer.  Here you can store beverages and chilled veggies for family self-service.  Locate this on the outskirts of your kitchen work triangle for interruption-free meal prep time.  For healthy snack ideas click here.

Quiet Time

Geneva Cabinet Company desk and storage cabinets

When quiet study would be more productive, create a customized corner in the den, family room or bedroom.   Be sure to include ample counter space, storage and charging outlets.

Start the day off right

Bathroom Vanity Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet in Lake Geneva WI

The Jack and Jill bath gets an update with this elongated bathroom vanity featuring a generous trough sink.  Plenty of counter space and storage equals no waiting.  We have more bath ideas for you right here.

Closet organization by Geneva Cabinet Company

Moving into the closet our favorite tip involves lots of storage drawers and bins, they are  especially helpful with clothing for kids.  A well fitted closet can also eliminate the need for costly bedroom furniture and keeping floor space open for play time. Click here for another crave-worthy closet installation!  One last tip, keep it moving in the morning by planning outfits for the week in advance.

 

Drop Zone & Launch Pad

Heading out the door will be a breeze when the essentials are stored in the “ready” position.   Built in lockers, benches and shelving are a streamline way to add storage to your mudroom or laundry.  This style is from Shiloh Cabinetry and will save you hours throughout the year.  No more last minute scrambling for homework or a missing shoe. Backpacks, jackets and sporting equipment will be stored where you can find them at the beginning and end of each day.

Back to School Break time

Now there’s time to take a break, maybe watch your favorite cooking show!

Browse through our Inspiration Gallery  for even more cabinetry design and storage ideas.  Then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to touch and feel beautiful cabinetry that will help you love your everyday routine.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Featured Cabinetry is from Plato Woodwork, Inc.,  Shiloh Cabinetry, and others.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf S.Photogaphy and Styling and Josh Z Photography

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New Kitchen Island Transforms the Kitchen

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We can all agree that this is a perfectly nice kitchen.  But our homeowners were hoping to elevate their style while increasing storage and adding some much needed island seating.

Enter the talented kitchen and bath designer, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  She created a more functional space with the addition of a redesigned island.  There is even a new Pinterest worthy coffee bar for good measure.  Along with updates to the lighting and some stunning ceiling detail, this kitchen takes on an entirely new character.

Geneva Cabinet Company kitchen with new island Plato Cabinetry

Kitchen Island Update

The original kitchen was created with cabinetry from Bea Industries in Elkhorn, Wi.  It had a user-friendly U-shape layout.  While stylish and open, our homeowner was looking for an improved kitchen island that would step-up the function of the space.

Cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc. was selected in a deep stain which enhanced the natural wood grain.  This rich finish served as a distinct contrast to ground the bright white kitchen.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island detail with extra seating Plato Woodwork cabinets

The island is topped with a lovely Cambria quartz countertop in the Ella pattern from their Marble Collection.  Subtle veining reflects the warm island stain while soft white connects to the surrounding cabinetry.  It works beautifully with the perimeter of granite countertops.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi island elevation with proper clearance

But it’s not just about having a gorgeous kitchen, the layout must be functional for a kitchen that is comfortable and convenient.  Notice the 48 ½” clearance between the island and the stove for safe usage when the oven door is open.  The close proximity to the island steam oven keeps the cooking zone tight and functional.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island pull out shelves

The island also features the secret to great cabinet storage, easy access pull-out shelving.  They will keep everyday items visible and within reach to improve daily workflow.

Check out more of our Before and After transformations right here!

We encourage you to stop in to see us!  Our showroom features the freshest ideas in cabinetry for your entire home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

Photography is by S.Photography Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide

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The key difference between an indoor kitchen and an outdoor kitchen is entertainment value.   Cooking outdoors turns everyday meal prep into a special occasion.  The variety of equipment for outdoor kitchens can take your weekend BBQ to the next level and provide culinary inspiration for entertaining family and friends.  Keep our design guidelines in mind and create the perfect outdoor cooking venue for the upcoming summer season.

Choose the location with convenience in mind.

The best location will blur the line between indoor and outdoor space allowing you to move easily without wasted footsteps back and forth. Certainly your outdoor kitchen will be used for entertaining, but remember that often you will want to cook outdoor and bring food indoors to dine.  When located close to your indoor kitchen, amenities for each area can be shared.   This could add up to a substantial savings on the overall project.

Design for functionality

Outdoor kitchens come in all shapes and sizes to go along with your space and budget.  The basic plan should provide an area for food prep, cooking and serving. Before creating your layout, locate the most direct access to gas, electric and water utilities.  This will cut down on the additional expense of running services further than necessary.

 

Material Selections

Choose the materials and finishes carefully with respect to your climate.  Cabinetry, countertops and appliances should be maintenance free.  Include stainless steel, teak and concrete for long lasting waterproof design.  We used Danver Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinetry in the featured projects to achieve high design, exceptional efficiency and lasting durability.

 

Beyond the Basics

The design options are endless, but once you cover your basic cooking functions it’s time to add even more convenience.  A sink in the outdoor kitchen makes clean-up a breeze and storage cabinetry will keep provisions at your fingertips.

 

Refrigeration is a plus for self-service beverages and holding perishables before cooking.

Specialized Cooking

The latest specialized outdoor kitchens feature artisan pizza ovens, slow-cook grills, smokers, and stoves with infra-red burners.  Any outdoor cooking enthusiast will love the restaurant quality options now available.

 

Protect yourself rain or shine

Protect yourself and your equipment with a little overhead coverage from a canopy or pergola.  Nothing will spoil the fun like the typical midwest storm blowing through.  Plan ahead so the party doesn’t become waterlogged or wither in the heat.   While you’re at it, add air circulation with ceiling fans and outdoor lighting so the good times don’t end at sundown.

Stop by our showroom and take a tour of this complete outdoor kitchen.   Designers Stephanie Nelson or Joyce Zuelke, ckd can answer your questions and walk you through the design of an outdoor kitchen where you can expand all of your cooking and entertaining possibilities.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

 

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Geneva Cabinet Company’s Award Winning Designers!

We are delighted to share our latest news!

Designer Natalie Spiniolas won a national design competition from WW Wood Products!  Her award winning designs will soon appear in their marketing material for Eclipse Full Access Cabinetry.   Take a look behind the scenes at the photo shoot.

 

 

Her designs in this contemporary Williams Bay, WI condo feature stunning Eclipse Full Access Cabinetry. Natalie’s integration of high-end appliances, open floating shelves, and lift-up doors definitely results in an award-worthy project.  Her juxtaposition of sleek melamine finishes include Pearl White for the kitchen and textured Canella for the bedroom and storage cabinetry.  It is a sleek, modern yin and yang effect.

 

 

Next up – Our showroom Manager Joyce Zuelke, ckd has been awarded a position on the  Plato Woodwork, Inc. Dealer Advisory Council where she is actively serving a three year term!

Joyce is collaborating with the best and the brightest in the Kitchen and Bath Industry to provide Plato with feedback on product needs, quality and service.  She will assist Plato with her insights on national and regional emerging trends.

In the meantime . . .

We are honored to have been awarded the prestigious Gold Award for sales from Plato Woodwork, Inc. We love working with the 125 year old family owned company from Minnesota!
 

Finally a big “Thank You” to Medallion Cabinetry and our Rep Doug Needler!

We love our iPad Grand Prize for winning the  Post & Win Competition!

#cabinetry #LakeGeneva #MedallionCabinetry

 

We are so fortunate to have this talented team of designers here at Geneva Cabinet Company!  We know our customers will always be pleased when their kitchens and baths are designed with cabinets from these high quality companies!

Stop in the showroom to say “hi” & browse our vignettes where you can touch and feel superior quality cabinetry first hand.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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Best of Design & Best of Service Awarded to Geneva Cabinet Company by Houzz in 2018!

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We are delighted and honored to receive the Best of Houzz 2018 award in 2 categories! Best Of Design & Best Of Service!

Geneva Cabinet Company Kitchen Design

 

An enormous Thank You to all who supported our work and especially to our clients who took the time to share a review with the Houzz community! Houzz® is the leading platform for home remodeling and design across the country and beyond. Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC was chosen by the more than 40 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than one million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

Houzz Best of Service 2018

Best of Service

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC has been awarded the Best of Houzz Service every year since we first appeared in Houzz in 2015. It is based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews received each year.

Houzz Best of Design 2018

Best of Design

The coveted Best Of Design award is presented for work that has been most popular among the more than 40 million monthly users on Houzz. We are so honored and delighted that our work caught the attention of so many viewers!

 

“The Houzz community selected a phenomenal group of Best of Houzz 2018 award winners, so this year’s recipients should be very proud,” said Liza Hausman, Vice President of Industry Marketing at Houzz. “Best of Houzz winners represent some of the most talented and customer-focused professionals in our industry, and we are extremely pleased to give them both this recognition and a platform on which to showcase their expertise.”

We invite you to join in the fun on Houzz and continue to save your favorite Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC projects to your own ideabooks!

Visit our showroom today

& be inspired for tomorrow!

262.245.9600

 

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